Domestic Violence Groups 'Horrified And Saddened' By Apparent Murder

Following the arrest of a Johnston man who and trying to burn her dismembered remains, the directors of two Rhode Island domestic violence prevention groups issued a statement calling the killing "gruesome" and terming it "the first domestic violence murder of 2012."

Elizabeth Buffum Chace Center Executive Director Judith Earle and R.I. Coalition Against Domestic Violence Executive Director Deborah DeBare issued the press release just before 6 p.m.

In the statement, the directors noted news reports of two children, ages 3 and 5, being found in the home as police investigated a fire that the suspect, Donald Greenslit, 52, apparently set in an attempt to burn the remains of his girlfriend's body.

“We are particularly saddened to hear about such young children found at the scene of the crime," Earle and DeBare wrote. "Domestic violence has powerful and long-term impacts on children who live in homes where domestic violence occurs. Children who witness violence often experience trauma-related problems ranging from developmental delays to trouble in school, and they are much more likely to become involved in abusive relationships as they get older."

In the statement, DeBare and Earle also cited Greenslit's history of arrests on domestic violence-related charges in calling for stronger court sanctions against suspects. Nearly 40 percent of misdemeanor charges of domestic violence were dismissed before the completion of a trial in 2011, they noted.

[According to unofficial court records posted online, Greenslit appeared in court five times over the past 10 years on domestic violence and assault charges.]

“This case in particular reminds us that we must work much harder to stop the cycle of abuse before it escalates to the point of deadly violence. Mr. Greenslit had numerous domestic violence charges pressed against him in the past, many of which were misdemeanors that were later dismissed," they wrote. "The challenges presented by domestic violence crimes are unique, but we must ensure that the justice system is working to keep victims safe and hold criminals accountable.”

Earle and DeBare also issued a reminder of the statewide Helpline for domestic violence, (800) 494-8100, which provides 24-hour hotline assistance, emergency shelters for victims, and counseling and other services.